Execution allocation cost assessment for computing systems and environments including elastic computing systems and environments

ABSTRACT

Techniques for assessing the cost of allocation of execution and affecting the allocation of execution are disclosed. The cost of allocation of execution to or between a first computing device (e.g., a mobile device) and one or more computing resource providers (e.g., one or more Clouds) can be determined during runtime of the executable code. It will be appreciated that a computing system can operate independently of the first computing device and one or more computing resource providers and provide execution allocation cost assessment as a service to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. Execution allocation cost can be assessed (or determined) based on execution allocation data pertaining to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. By way of example, power consumption of a mobile device can be used as a factor in determining how to allocate individual components of an application program (e.g., weblets) between a mobile phone and a Cloud. The invention is especially suited for Elastic computing environment and systems. In an Elastic computing environment, scalable and dynamic external computing resources can be used in order to effectively extend the computing capabilities beyond that which can be provided by internal computing resources of a computing system or environment.

CROSS-RELATION TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/117,082, entitled “EXTENDED AND/OR ADJUSTABLE COMPUTING SYSTEMS USING ABSTRACT AND/OR CONCEALED COMPUTING SERVICE PROVIDERS,”, filed Nov. 21, 2008, provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/222,654, entitled “EXTENDING THE CAPABILITY OF COMPUTING DEVICES BY USING ABSTRACT AND DYNAMICALLY SCALABLE EXTERNAL RESOURCES,”, filed Jul. 2, 2009, provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/222,855, entitled “SECURING ELASTIC APPLICATIONS ON MOBILE DEVICES FOR CLOUD COMPUTING,”, filed Jul. 2, 2009, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/559,394 entitled “EXTENDING THE CAPABILITY OF COMPUTING DEVICES BY USING DYNAMICALLY SCALABLE EXTERNAL RESOURCES,”, filed on Sep. 14, 2009, which are all hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conceptually, a computing system (e.g., a computing device, a personal computer, a laptop, a Smartphone, a mobile phone) can accept information (content or data) and manipulate it to obtain or determine a result based on a sequence of instructions (or a computer program) that effectively describes how to process the information. Typically, the information is stored in a computer readable medium in a binary form. More complex computing systems can store content including the computer program itself. A computer program may be invariable and/or built into, for example, a computer (or computing) device as logic circuitry provided on microprocessors or computer chips. Today, general purpose computers can have both kinds of programming. A computing system can also have a support system which, among other things, manages various resources (e.g., memory, peripheral devices) and services (e.g., basic functions such as opening files) and allows the resources to be shared among multiple programs. One such support system is generally known as an Operating System (OS), which provides programmers with an interface used to access these resources and services.

Today, numerous types of computing devices are available. These computing devices widely range with respect to size, cost, amount of storage and processing power. The computing devices that are available today include: expensive and powerful servers, relatively cheaper Personal Computers (PC's) and laptops, and yet less expensive microprocessors (or computer chips) provided in storage devices, automobiles, and household electronic appliances.

In recent years, computing systems have become more portable and mobile. As a result, various mobile and handheld devices have been made available. By way of example, wireless phones, media players, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA's) are widely used today. Generally, a mobile or a handheld device (also known as handheld computer or simply handheld) can be a pocket-sized computing device, typically utilizing a small visual display screen for user output and a miniaturized keyboard for user input. In the case of a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), the input and output can be combined into a touch-screen interface.

In particular, mobile communication devices (e.g., mobile phones) have become extremely popular. Some mobile communication devices (e.g., Smartphones) offer computing environments that are similar to that provided by a Personal Computer (PC). As such, a Smartphone can effectively provide a complete operating system as a standardized interface and platform for application developers.

Another more recent trend is the ever increasing accessibility of the Internet and the services that can be provided via the Internet. Today, the Internet can be accessed virtually anywhere by using various computing devices. For example, mobile phones, smart phones, datacards, handheld game consoles, cellular routers, and numerous other devices can allow users to connect to the Internet from anywhere in a cellular network. Within the limitations imposed by the small screen and other limited and/or reduced facilities of a pocket-sized or handheld device, the services of the Internet, including email and web browsing, may be available. Typically, users manage information with web browsers, but other software can allow them to interface with computer networks that are connected to or by the Internet. These other programs include, for example, electronic mail, online chat, file transfer and file sharing. Today's Internet can be viewed as a vast global network of interconnected computers, enabling users to share information along multiple channels. Typically, a computer that connects to the Internet can access information from a vast array of available servers and other computers by moving information from them to the computer's local memory. The Internet is a very useful and important resource as readily evidenced by its ever increasing popularity and widening usage and applications.

The popularity of computing systems is evidenced by their ever increasing use in everyday life. Accordingly, techniques that can improve computing systems would be very useful.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Broadly speaking, the invention relates to computing systems and computing environments. More particularly, the invention pertains to techniques for assessment of the cost of allocation of executable computer code in computing environment, including “Elastic” computing environments where, among other things, computing capabilities of a computing system (e.g., a computing device can be effectively extended in a dynamic manner at runtime.

A computing system can be operable to determine the cost of allocation of execution to or between at least a first computing device (e.g., a mobile device) and one or more computing resource providers (e.g., one or more Clouds) during runtime of the executable code. It will be appreciated that the computing system can operate independently of the first computing device and one or more computing resource providers and provide execution allocation cost assessment as a service to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. Execution allocation cost can be assessed (or determined) based on execution allocation data pertaining to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. By way of example, power consumption of a mobile device can be used as a factor in determining how to allocate individual components of an application program (e.g., weblets) between a mobile phone and a Cloud.

The invention is especially suited for Elastic computing environment and systems. In an Elastic computing environment, scalable and dynamic external computing resources can be used in order to effectively extend the computing capabilities beyond that which can be provided by internal computing resources of a computing system or environment. A scalable and dynamic external computing resource can provide computing resources that far exceed the internal computing resources of a computing system and/or environment (e.g., a computing device). As a result, a computing system may function with relatively limited and/or reduced computing resources (e.g., processing power, memory) but have the ability to effectively provide as much computing services as may be needed and provide the services when needed, on demand, and dynamically during the execution time.

In an Elastic computing environment, an Elastic computing system (e.g., a computing device) can be operable to determine, during runtime of executable computer code, whether to execute (or continue to execute) one or more portions of the executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource as an external computing resource. The computing system can determine the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code between internal computing resources and the external computing resources of the dynamically scalable computing resource in a dynamic manner at runtime (e.g., during load time, after load time before execution time, execution time) and allocate the execution accordingly.

In addition, an Elastic computing device can be operable to effectively use a scalable and dynamically scalable resource for execution of at least a first part (or portion) of executable computer code. The computing device may also be operable to use its internal computing resources to execute a second part (or portion) of executable computer code. Nevertheless, the computing device can provide the output of the executions of both the first and second parts of the executable computer code result, thereby making the collective result of the execution available on the computing system. It should be noted that the computing device can be operable to use a dynamically scalable resource as an abstract resource. By way of example, an Abstract and Dynamically Scalable Computing Resource (ADSCR) can be accessed using an abstract interface. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the ADSCR, can for example, be a “Cloud” computing resource operable to deliver dynamically scalable computing resources via an abstract interface as Web-services over the Internet.

The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including, for example, a method, an apparatus, a computer readable (and/or storable) medium, and a computing system (e.g., a computing device). A computer readable medium can, for example, include and/or store at least executable computer program code stored in a tangible form. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1A depicts a computing device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B depicts a method for extending (or expanding) the internal capabilities of a computing device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1C depicts a method for extending (or expanding) the capabilities of a computing device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1D depicts a method for executing executable computer code in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a computing environment in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a computing device in a Web-based environment in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D depict various configurations of a dynamically adjustable (or Elastic) computing device in accordance with a number of embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 depicts an Elastic mobile device (or mobile terminal) operable to effectively consume cloud resources via an elasticity service in a computing/communication environment in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 depicts an Elastic computing environment in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7A depicts an Elastic computing environment in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7B depicts a method for determining the relative extent of allocation of execution of executable computer code to, or between, a first computing device and one or more computing resource providers in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 depicts a cost model service on a Cloud in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 depicts an exemplary power graph transformation that can be used in connection with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As noted in the background section, computing environments and systems are very useful. Today, various computing devices have become integrated in every day life. In particular, portable computing devices are extremely popular. As such, extensive efforts have been made to provide cheaper and more powerful portable computing devices. In addition, it is highly desirable to provide modern Consumer Electronic (CE) devices with extensive computing capabilities. However, conventional computing environments and techniques are not generally suitable for providing modern portable and CE computing devices. In other words, conventional computing environments provided for more traditional computing devices (e.g., Personal Computers, servers) can be relatively complex and/or expensive and not generally suitable for modern CE computing devices, especially for a CE device intended to operate with limited and/or reduced resources (e.g., processing power, memory, battery power) and/or provide other functionalities, for example, mobile phones. In some cases, the computing capabilities of a CE device would serve as a secondary functionality (e.g., televisions, refrigerators, etc.). As such, it is not very desirable to use a relatively complex and expensive computing environment in order to provide modern CE devices with extensive computing capabilities.

In view of the foregoing, improved computing environments are needed. It will be appreciated that the invention provides improved computing environments and computing techniques.

The invention relates to computing systems and computing environments. More particularly, the invention pertains to techniques for assessment of the cost of allocation of executable computer code in computing environment, including “Elastic” computing environments where, among other things, computing capabilities of a computing system (e.g., a computing device can be effectively extended in a dynamic manner at runtime.

A computing system can be operable to determine the cost of allocation of execution to or between at least a first computing device (e.g., a mobile device) and one or more computing resource providers (e.g., one or more Clouds) during runtime of the executable code. It will be appreciated that the computing system can operate independently of the first computing device and one or more computing resource providers and provide execution allocation cost assessment as a service to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. Execution allocation cost can be assessed (or determined) based on execution allocation data pertaining to the first computing device and/or one or more computing resource providers. By way of example, power consumption of a mobile device can be used as a factor in determining how to allocate individual components of an application program (e.g., weblets) between a mobile phone and a Cloud.

The invention is especially suited for Elastic computing environment and systems. In an Elastic computing environment, scalable and dynamic external computing resources can be used in order to effectively extend the computing capabilities beyond that which can be provided by internal computing resources of a computing system or environment. A scalable and dynamic external computing resource can provide computing resources that far exceed the internal computing resources of a computing system and/or environment (e.g., a computing device). As a result, a computing system may function with relatively limited and/or reduced computing resources (e.g., processing power, memory) but have the ability to effectively provide as much computing services as may be needed and provide the services when needed, on demand, and dynamically during the execution time.

In an Elastic computing environment, an Elastic computing system (e.g., a computing device) can be operable to determine, during runtime of executable computer code, whether to execute (or continue to execute) one or more portions of the executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource as an external computing resource. The computing system can determine the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code between internal computing resources and the external computing resources of the dynamically scalable computing resource in a dynamic manner at runtime (e.g., during load time, after load time before execution time, execution time) and allocate the execution accordingly.

In addition, an Elastic computing device can be operable to effectively use a scalable and dynamically scalable resource for execution of at least a first part (or portion) of executable computer code. The computing device may also be operable to use its internal computing resources to execute a second part (or portion) of executable computer code. Nevertheless, the computing device can provide the output of the executions of both the first and second parts of the executable computer code result, thereby making the collective result of the execution available on the computing system. It should be noted that the computing device can be operable to use a dynamically scalable resource as an abstract resource. By way of example, an Abstract and Dynamically Scalable Computing Resource (ADSCR) can be accessed using an abstract interface. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the ADSCR, can for example, be a “Cloud” computing resource operable to deliver dynamically scalable computing resources via an abstract interface as Web-services over the Internet.

Embodiments of these aspects of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1A-9. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.

FIG. 1A depicts a computing device (or computing system) 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 1A, the computing device 100 can effectively use one or more of its computing resources (“internal computing resources”) 102 to perform various computing tasks, including loading and execution of executable computer code 104 (e.g., a computer application program). As will be known to those skilled in the art, the internal computing resources 102 can, for example, include one or more processors, memory, non-volatile memory, storage memory, RAM memory, a computer readable storage medium storing executable computer code, and so on. The executable computer code 104 can, for example, be stored partly or entirely by the internal computing resources 102 of the computing device 100, stored on one or more other devices including various storage devices (e.g., a Compact Disk) and/or be distributed among various entities including server computing systems (or servers) and various storage facilities. Generally, the executable computer code 104 can be stored in a computer readable storage medium provided for the computing device 100 and/or another entity. As such, the computing device 100 can be operable to store at least a first portion 104A of the executable computer code 104 internally and for execution by its internal computing resources 102.

Moreover, it will be appreciated that the computing device 100 can be operable to effectively facilitate and/or cause execution of the executable computer code 104 by a Dynamically Scalable Computing Resource (DSCR) 106 that can provide scalable computing resources on-demand and as need by the computing device 100, in a dynamic manner. As such, the computing device 100 can be operable to use the internal computing resources 102, as well as one or more (external) computing resources (“external computing resources”) 108 of the DSCR 106. In other words, the computing device 100 can be operable to effectively use both internal computing resources 102 and external computing resources 108 in order to effectively facilitate, initiate, resume and/or cause execution of various portions (or parts) of the executable computer code 104 (e.g., a first and second portions 104A and 104B can be executed using respectively internal and external computing resources 102 and 106).

More particularly, the computing device 100 can effectively provide an Elastic Computing System (ESC) 101 operable to effectively extend the internal computing resources 102 by utilizing (or effectively using) the external computing resources 108 of the DSCR 106. It should be noted that DSCR 106 can effectively provide a layer of abstraction so that the ESC 101 need not specifically address a specific computing resource (e.g., a computing resource R1 of a computing device of Machine M1) or “know” the identity of a specific machine (or device) M1 that executes the second portion 1048 of the executable computer code 104 on behalf of the computing device 100. As such, the DSCR 106 can be provided as an ADSCR 106, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. As a result, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively use the computing resources of various entities including, for example, Machine 1 (M1) and Machine 2 (M2) of the ADSCR 106 by addressing an interface 110, whereby the computing resources 108, and/or services provided by them, can be effectively abstracted from the computing device 100.

It will also be appreciated that the ESC 101 can be operable to determine, during the runtime of the executable computer code 104, whether to execute or continue to execute one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 by effectively using the DSCR 106, thereby dynamically determining during runtime, relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 between the internal computing resources 102 of the computing system 100 and external computing resources 108 of the DSCR 106. Based on this determination of relative extent of allocation of execution, the ESC 101 can also be operable to effectively use the one or more external resources 108 of the DSCR 106 for execution of one or more portions of the executable computer code 104. In other words, the ESC 101 can cause the execution of one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 when it determines to execute one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 by effectively using one or more of the external resources 108 of the DSCR 106.

It should be noted that the determination of the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 can, for example, occur when one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 is to be loaded for execution, one or more portions said executable computer code 104 is to be executed, one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 is being executed by one or more of the internal computing resources 102, one or more portions the executable computer code 104 is being executed by the external computing resources 108. Generally, this determination can be made during runtime when executable computer code 104 is to be loaded for execution, or is to be executed (e.g., after it has been loaded but before execution), or is being executed.

It should also be noted that determination of the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 can be performed by the ESC 101, without requiring user input, thereby automatically determining the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 between said one or more internal computing resources 102 and one or more external resources 108. However, it should be noted that the ESC 101 may be operable to make this determination based on one or more preferences that can, for example, be provided as set of predetermined user-defined preferences (e.g., minimize power or battery usage, use internal resources first, maximize performance, minimize monetary cost). The ESC 101 may also be operable to make the determination of the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 based on input explicitly provided by a user at runtime. By way of example, the ESC 101 may be operable to request user input and/or user confirmation prior to allocation of execution to the DSCR 106.

This determination can, for example, be made based on one or more capabilities the internal computing resources 102, monetary cost associated with using the external resources 108, expected and/or expectable latency for delivering services by the external resources 108, network bandwidth for communication with the DSCR 106, status of one or more physical resources, battery power of the computing system 100, one or more environmental factors, physical location of the computing system 100, number and/or types of applications being executed on the computing system 100, type of applications to be executed.

It will be appreciated that the ESC 101 can be operable to determine the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code 104 between the internal and external computing resources 102 and 108 without requiring code developers to explicitly define the extent of the allocation. In other words, the ESC 101 can determine the extent of execution allocation to external computing resources 108 and make the allocation accordingly without requiring the executable computer code 104 to effectively provide any instructions with respect to allocation of execution between the internal and external computing resources 102 and 108. As a result, computer application developers need not develop applications that explicitly define allocation between internal and external computing resources of a computing system or a device. It should be noted that the developer can explicitly identify code portions (or code fragments) to be allocated for execution using internal and external computing resources. However, the ESC 101 can determine which of the code portions are to be executed by internal or external computing resources.

It will also be appreciated that the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively increase and/or decrease the extent of the effective use of the one or more external resources 108 of the DSCR 106 during runtime of the executable computer code 104, thereby effectively providing dynamic elasticity to modify and/or adjust the extent of allocation of execution to execute more of less portions of the executable computer code 104 during runtime. The one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 can be relocate and/or replicable code, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Moreover, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively relocate one or more re-locatable and/or replicable code portions 104 from the computing system 100 to the DSCR 106, or vice versa, during runtime of the executable computer code 104.

In other words, the computing device 100 can be operable to vary the extent of execution allocation of the executable computer code 104, during run time, between various allocation stages. These allocation stages include: (i) an internal allocation stage when the executable computer code 104 is executed entirely and/or using only the internal computing resources 102, (ii) a split allocation stage when the executable computer code is executed using both internal and external computing resources 102 and 108, and (iii) an external allocation stage when the executable computer code 104 is executed entirely and/or using only the external computing resources 108. As such, the computing device 100 can be operable to vary the extent of execution allocation of the executable computer code 104, during run time, to provide “vertical” elasticity between the internal computing resources 102 and the external computing resources 108 of the DSCR such that executable computer code 104 is executed using only the internal computing resources 103 or is “split” between the internal and external computing resources 102 and 108 so that at least a first executable portion 104A is executed using internal computing resources 102 and at least a second executable portion 1048 is executed using the external computing resources 108.

In addition, it should be noted that the ESC 101 can be operable to cause execution of at least two portions of said executable code respectively on two nodes (e.g., machines M1 and M2) of the DSCR 106. By way of example, the ESC 101 can be operable to cause execution of at least two processes associated with the executable computer code 104 respectively on two separate computing nodes of the executable computer code 104.

In view of the foregoing, it will be apparent the ESC 101 allows the computing device 100 to effectively extend its computing capabilities beyond its internal computing capabilities effectively defined based on the capabilities of the internal computing resources 102. As such, the computing device 100 need not be bound by the limits of its internal computing capabilities but may be bound by the limits of the external computing resources of the DSCR 106 which may be relatively and/or virtually unlimited with respect to the internal computing resources 102. As a result, the computing device may be provided with very limited, reduced and/or cheap internal resources but be operable to effectively provide computing capabilities that are bound only by the virtually limitless external resources of dynamically saleable resources (e.g., a “Cloud” Computing Resources capable of providing virtually as much computing capabilities as may be desired by a single computing device).

It will also be appreciated that the ESC 101 can be operable to cause execution of the one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 by one or more external resources 108 without copying any operating environment (e.g., an operating system, an image) of the computing device 100 which is operable to execute the one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 on the computing device 100.

The ESC 101 can be operable to obtain (e.g., generate, receive) a first output data as a result of the execution of the first executable computer code portion 104A by the internal computing resources 102. In addition, the ESC 101 can be operable to obtain second output data as a result of the execution of the second portion 104B of the executable computer code 104. This means that the first and second output data associated respectively with the execution of the first and second portions (104A and 104B) can both be made available as a collective result of the executable computer code 104. As a result, the computing device 100 can provide execution output (e.g., computing services) in a similar manner as would be provided had the execution been performed using only the internal computing resources 102. It should be noted that the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively facilitate, initiate, resume and/or cause execution of one or more portions of the executable computer code 104 by using one or more external computing resources 108 of the DSCR 106, or by facilitating, initiating, resuming and/or causing the execution by the DSCR 106 (i.e., causing the DSCR to execute the executable computer code 104 using its computing resources 108). An external computing resource 108 (e.g., R1 and R2) may, for example, provide both the processing power and memory needed to execute one or more portions of the executable computer code 104, or support the execution by providing only memory or only processing power required for execution.

In general, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively request computing services from the DSCR 106. As a dynamically scalable resource provider, the DSCR 106 can provide computing resources on demand and to the extent needed during execution time so that it can execute at least both first and second portions (104A and 104B) of the executable computer code 104. It will be appreciated that the computing resources of the DSCR 106 can far exceed the internal computing resources 102 of the computing device 100. By way of example, the computing device 100 can be a computing device with relatively limited and/or reduced computing resources 102 in comparison to a “Cloud” computing resource (106) that can provide scalable computing resources, including processing power and memory, dynamically and on demand, to the extent requested by the ESC 101 of the computing device 100.

A “Cloud” computing resource is an example of a dynamically scalable computing resource capable of providing computing services over the Internet and using typically virtualized computing resources, as will be readily known to those skilled in the art. Generally, using a dynamically scalable external resource, the ESC 101 can effectively provide a virtual device with computing capabilities far exceeding its relatively limited and/or reduced internal computing resources 102.

It should also be noted that the ESC 101 can effectively use the dynamic scalability of the DSCR 106 in order to provide a dynamically adaptable device capable of effectively providing computing services on the demand and as needed. As such, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively switch between internal computing resources 102 and external computing resources 108 at run time during the execution of the executable computer code 104. By way of example, the ESC 101 can be operable to cause execution of a third portion 104C of the executable computer code 104 by the DSCR 106 after initiating or causing execution of the first or second portions (104A and 104B) of the executable computer code 104 and possibly while the first and/or second portions (104A and 104B) of the executable computer code 104 are being executed. As another example, the ESC 101 can be operable to execute or resume execution of the second portion 104B of the executable computer code 104 using the internal computing resources 102 after effectively initiating or causing execution of the second portion 104B of the executable computer code 104 on the DSCR 106. As yet another example, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively facilitate, cause, or resume execution of a first portion 104A by the DSCR 106 after initiating the execution of the first portion 104A and while it is still being executed on the internal computing resource 102.

Generally, the ESC 101 can be operable to determine whether to execute at least a portion of the executable computer code 104 using an external computing resource such as the external computing resources 108 provided by the DSCR 106. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this determination can be made based on various factors including, for example, one or more of the following: capabilities of the internal computing resources 102, the monetary cost associated with external resources, expected and/or expectable latency for delivering services, network bandwidth, status of physical resources (e.g., current battery power), environmental factors (e.g., location).

The ESC 101 can also be operable to coordinate the internal and external execution activities. By way of example, the ESC 101 can be operable to effectively coordinate execution of a first executable code portion 104A using internal computing resources 102 with the execution of a second executable code portion 104B using DSCR 106, thereby effectively using both internal and external computing resources to execute said executable computer code in a coordinated manner. As part of the coordination activities, the ESC 101 can be operable to obtain first and second output data respectively for the first and second executable code portions as a collective result, thereby making available on the ESC 101 both the first and second output data as a collective result of execution of the executable computer program code 104. It will be appreciated that the ESC 101 can provide the collective result as if the entire executable code 104 has been executed using internal computing resources 102. A user of the ESC 101 need not be aware that external computing resources are being used and computing service can be delivered in a meaningful way. In addition, ESC 101 allows development and execution of the same executable computer code (e.g., a computer Application Program) for various devices ranging from those that may have very limited and/or reduced computing resources to those with very extensive computing resources, thereby enhancing the software development process and maintenance.

In view of the foregoing, it will readily be appreciated that the computing device 100 can, for example, be a Consumer Electronic (CE) device, a mobile device, a handheld device, a home appliance device (a Television, a refrigerator) with relatively limited and/or reduced built in computing resources. Moreover, it will be appreciated that ESC 101 is especially suitable for CE and/or mobile devices with general characteristics that include limited and/or reduced computing resources and/or power, varying communication speed, quality and/or responsiveness to the user.

FIG. 1B depicts a method 150 for extending the capabilities (or extending the internal capabilities) of a computing device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Method 150 can, for example, be performed by the computing device 100 depicted in FIG. 1A.

Referring to FIG. 1B, initially, it is determined (152) whether to execute executable computer code. In effect, the method 150 can wait until it is determined (152) that executable computer code is to be executed. If it is determined (152) to execute executable computer code, the method 150 can proceed to determine whether to use external computing resources and/or the extent of respective use of internal and external computing resources in order to execute the executable computer code. As a result, execution of at least a portion of the executable computer code can be initiated (156B) using one or more internal computing resources of the computing device (or a particular computing environment or computing system). In addition, execution of at least a portion of the executable computer code can be initiated, facilitated and/or caused (156B) using a DSCR. In other words, one or more computing resources of a DSCR can be effectively requested to be provided to the computing device as one or more external resources. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that generally, execution (156A and 156B) can be initiated using internal and external computing resources (156A and 156B) substantially in parallel or virtually at the same time. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that execution of various portions of the executable computer code can effectively switch between internal and external computing resources. Referring back to FIG. 1B, it can optionally be determined (158) whether to switch execution of one or more portions of executable computer code from an external computing resource, namely, a DSCR, to one or more internal computing resources. As a result, execution of a portion of the executable computer code can be initiated using an external computing resource but later moved and/or resumed using an internal computing resource. Similarly, it can optionally be determined (159) whether to switch execution of one or more portions of the executable computer code from one or more internal computing resources to one or more external computing resources and the usage of computing resources can be changed accordingly.

It should be noted that execution of executable computer code using respectively internal and external computing resources can end if it is determined to end (160A) execution using internal computing resources or end (160B) execution using external computing resources. The method 150 can proceed in a similar manner to execute executable computer code using internal and/or external computing resources while allowing usage of these resources to be adjusted during execution time in a dynamic manner, as depicted in FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1C depicts a method 180 for extending the capabilities (or extending the internal capabilities) of a computing device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Method 180 can, for example, be performed by the computing device 100 depicted in FIG. 1A. Referring to FIG. 1C, initially, coordination (182) of execution of executable code is initiated. Generally, this coordination (182) can coordinate use of internal and external computing resources. In other words, coordination between use of internal and external computing resources for executing executable computer program code can be initiated. Typically, the coordination (182) coordinates: (a) execution or execution related activities using internal computing resources, and (b) execution or execution related activities using external computing resources. The internal computing resources can be provided by the computing device and external computing resources can be provided by a dynamically scalable computing resource.

Referring back FIG. 1C, two exemplary operations that can be coordinated (182) are depicted. A first operation is depicted as initiating (184A) execution of at least a first portion of executable computer code by or using one or more internal computing resources of a computing device. A second operation is depicted as effectively using (184B) external computing resources of a least one DSCR for execution of a second portion of the executable code. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these exemplary operations (184A and 1848) can be initiated in various orders or in parallel.

As a part of this coordination (182), the coordination (182) can determine when to initiate each of the exemplary operations (184A and 184B), and initiate them accordingly. In effect, the coordination (182) can continue to effectively coordinate (a) execution of the first portion of executable computer code using internal computing resources with (b) execution of the second portion of executable computer code using external computing resources of a DSCR.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the coordination (182) can, for example, include: generating a first output for execution of the first portion of the executable computer code by using internal computing resources, and obtaining a second execution result as a result of execution of the second portion of the executable computer code by one or more external computing resources. Referring back to FIG. 1C, as a part of the coordination (182), it can be determined (188) whether the results of the executions (184A and 184B) are available. Accordingly, a collective result of the execution of the first and second portions of the code can be generated (190) as a part of the coordination (182). It should be noted that the collective result may be presented by the computing device and/or made available by the computing system.

However, if it is determined (188) that the results of the executions are not available, it can be determined (192) whether to adjust and/or re-coordinate the execution of the executable computer code. Accordingly, the execution of the executable computer can be dynamically adjusted and/or re-coordinated (194). By way of example, execution of the second code portion can be reinitiated using the same external computing resource, it can be initiated using a different external computing resource, or it can be switched to an internal resource. In addition, error handling and/or error recovery may also be performed.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that coordinating (182) or re-coordinating (194) can, for example, also include: determining when to effectively initiate execution of executable computer code using an internal or external computing resources, selecting a DSCR from a set of DSCR's, and selecting one or more external resources (e.g., a specific type of resource, a specific resource among other similar resources). Other examples include: determining a location for sending a request for execution of executable computer code (or a portion thereof), sending to the determined location a request for the execution of the executable computer code, and obtaining from the location the execution result.

FIG. 1D depicts a method 195 for execution of executable computer code in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Method 195 can, for example, be performed by the computing device 100 depicted in FIG. 1A. Initially, it is determined (196) whether to execute or continue to execute one or more portions of executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource. The determination (196) can, for example, be determined at runtime, thereby dynamically determining the relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code between internal and external computing resources computing resources. If it is determined (196) not to execute or not to continue to execute at least one portion of the executable computer code, it is determined (197) whether to end (or not initiate) execution of the executable computer code. Consequently, the method 195 can end or result in execution (199) of the executable computer code by using only internal computing resources. Thereafter, the method 195 proceeds to determine (196) whether to execute one or more portions of executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource. As a result, allocation of execution may be adjusted to use external resources.

In particular, if it is determined (196) to execute or continue to execute at least one portion of the executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource, the method 195 proceeds to allocate (198) execution between internal and external computing resources accordingly. After execution of the executable computer code has been allocated accordingly, method 195 proceeds to determine (196) whether to execute one or more portions of executable computer code by effectively using a dynamically scalable computing resource. In effect, the allocation of execution may be adjusted to allocate more or less of the execution of the executable computer code to the external resources. Method 195 ends if it is determined (197) to end execution of the executable computer code or if it is determined (197) not to execute the executable computer code.

As noted above, the Elastic Computing System (ESC) (e.g., ESC 101 shown in FIG. 1A) can effectively extend the internal (or physical) computing resources of a computing device, thereby extending the internal computing capabilities of the computing device. As a result, a virtual device with extensive computing capabilities can be effectively built using a device with relatively limited and/or reduced capabilities. It should be noted that the internal computing capabilities of the computing device can be extended at runtime in a dynamic manner.

To further elaborate, FIG. 2 depicts a computing environment 200 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The computing environment 200 can, for example, be provided by and/or for the computing device 100 depicted in FIG. 1A.

Referring to FIG. 2, an Elastic Layer (component or module) 202 can be provided for a hardware layer 204. The Elastic Layer (EL) 202 may interface with an optional top layer 206 that can, for example, include a User Interface (UI), a Web Top (WT) layer, or an application layer. As shown in FIG. 2, an optional Operating System (OS) layer 208 may also reside between the Elastic Layer (EL) 202 and the hardware layer 204, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a Virtual Environment (VE) 210 (e.g., a Run Time Environment (RTE) 210) can be provided by the Elastic Layer (EL) 202 to effectively extend the physical hardware layer 204 and its capabilities. Referring to FIG. 2, the Elastic Layer (EL) 202 can be operable to effectively initiate and/or instantiate one or more instances of a VE 210 on demand and as needed. For example, an individual RTE instance 210A can be initiated for execution of a particular part or portion of executable computer code (e.g., an application component, an Applet, a Weblet). The Elastic Layer (EL) 202 can be operable to effectively initiate or cause initiation of a virtual computing environment by the ADSCR 106.

In effect, a computing resource 108A of the ADSCR 106 can be provided by an RTE instance 210A as if the physical computing resource 108A is present in the hardware layer 204. The RTE 210 allows effectively extending the resource 108A to the Computing Environment 200. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the RTE can, for example, be provided to a virtual computing environment on the ADSCR 106 and/or the computing environment 200. The Elastic Layer (EL) 202 can initiate RTE instances 210 as needed and consequently be provided with the computing resources of the ADSCR 106 on demand and in a dynamic manner at runtime (or during the execution of executable computer code). As a result, the Elastic Layer (EL) 202 can effectively provide a virtual computing device capable of providing computing capabilities that can be extended dynamically and on demand far beyond the real capabilities of the hardware layer 204.

As noted above, a “Cloud” computing resource is an example of a dynamically scalable computing resource capable of providing computing services over the Internet using typically virtualized computing resources. It will be appreciated that the invention is especially suited for Web-based (or Web-centric) applications using “Cloud” computing technology.

To further elaborate, FIG. 3 depicts a computing device 300 in a Web-based environment in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 3, a Web-based application 302 can include a manifest 302 m, a User Interface (UI) 302 u, and a plurality of other application components 302 a and 302 b, as generally known in the art. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that as components of a Web-based application, components 302 a and 302 b can perform operations including, for example: responding to Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) requests, communicating with a single client and having a lifecycle bound to that of the client, executing locally or remotely. The components of a Web-based application (e.g., Web-based application 302) are referred to herein as “Weblets” (e.g., Weblets 302 a and 302 b). The manifest 302 m can effectively provide a description of the web-based application 302. As such, the manifest 302 m can, for example, provide information including the number of Weblets, format of Weblet requests, etc. Each of the Weblets 302 a and 302 b can be a part of an application and effectively encapsulate date state and the operations that can change the date state. A Weblet 302 a can include executable code, for example, in the form of “bytecodes” that effectively expose an HTTP Interface to the User Interface, as will be readily known to those skilled in the art.

Those skilled in the art will also know that the computing device 300 can effectively provide a Web Top layer 300A (or component) effectively providing an environment for rendering and executing (or running) User Interface (UI) components, such as, the User Interface (UI) 302 u of the web-based application 302. UI component 302 u can, for example, be a browser, as generally known in the art.

Referring back to FIG. 3, the computing device 300 also includes an Elastic Layer (EL) 300B that may provide a number of components (or sub-components). In particular, an Application Manager (AM) 320 can be operable to initiate, or cause initiation of, one or more Virtual Computing Environments (VCEs), as one or more Internal Virtual Machines (IVMs) 308 in the computing device 300, and/or as one or more External Virtual Machines (EVM) 310 in a “Cloud” computing resource (or a “Cloud”) 312. Each one of the IVM 308 and EVM 310 can effectively support the execution of a Weblet of the Web-based application 302. By way of example, the IVM 308 can effectively support the execution of the Weblet 302 a when or while the EVM 310 effectively supports the execution of the Weblet 302 b. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these VCEs can, for example, be provided as an Application Virtual Machine, such as, a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), a Common Language Runtime (CLR), a Low Level Virtual Machine (LLVM), and others including those that an provide a complete operating system environment. The Application Manager (AM) 320 can manage an application and/or the execution of the application as a whole. As such, the Application Manager (AM) 320 can effectively serve as a higher level layer that communicates with a lower layer effectively provided by an Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 component operable to manage the individual Weblets.

In addition, the Application Manager (AM) 320 component of the Elastic Layer (EL) 300B can be operable to determine whether to initiate a VCE internally as an IVM 308, or cause initiation of a VCE externally as an EVM 310 on the “Cloud” 312. In other words, the Application Manager (AM) 320 component can be operable to determine whether to execute a particular Weblet (e.g., Weblet 302 a, Weblet 302 b) using the internal computing resources of the computing device 300 or external computing resources of the “Cloud” 312 which are dynamically scalable and can be provided on demand. The Application Manager (AM) 320 can be operable to make this determination based on the information provided by an Elasticity Manager (EM) 322. Generally, the Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 can be operable to monitor the environment of the computing device 300, including the computing environment of the computing device 300, and provide monitoring data to the Application Manager (AM) 320. The Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 component can, for example, monitor the environment (e.g., computing environment) of the computing device 300 based on data provided by sensors 324. Based on the data provided by the sensor and/or obtained from other sources, it can be determined whether to use of more of less of the external resources of the “Cloud” 312. As such, the Application Manager (AM) 320 may effectively initiate more EVMs on the “Cloud” 312 in order to, for example, move the execution of the Weblet 302 a to the “Cloud” 312 and/or additionally execute a third Weblet of the Web-based application 302 (not shown) on an EVM of the “Cloud” 312.

It should be noted that a switcher component 326 can effectively connect the Weblets (or execution of the Weblets) 302 a and 302 b to the User Interface (UI) 302 u regardless of whether the execution is supported entirely by the internal computing resources of the computing device 300, or the execution is supported at least partly by the external computing resources of the “Cloud” 312.

It should be noted that the “Cloud” 312 may have a Cloud Management Service (CMS) 312M that effectively manages services provided to various clients of the “Cloud” 312, including the computing device 300. More particularly, Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 can effectively interface with the CMS 312M in order to manage or co-manage one or more EVMs 310 provided by the “Cloud” 312 on behalf of computing device 300. In other words, the Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 can also be operable to serve as an interface to the “Cloud” 312 and manage and/or co-mange the computing environments of the “Cloud” 312 that pertain to the computing device 300.

In addition, the “Cloud” 312 may include other components. As shown in FIG. 3, “Cloud” 312 can provide a Web Top Environment 312W operable to effectively render and execute the User Interface (UI) 302 u of the Web-based application 302. Moreover, the Elasticity Manager (EM) 322 may effectively request that the Application Manager (AM) 320 initiate the execution of the User Interface (UI) 302 u by the “Cloud” 312. As a result, the User Interface (UI) 302 u may be effectively rendered and executed in the Web Top Environment 312W of the “Cloud” 312. In that case, a Remote User Interface (RUI) 330 can be operable to communicate with the User Interface (UI) 302 u being rendered and executed by the “Cloud” 312. The Remote User Interface (RUI) 330 may, for example, communicate user input data to the “Cloud” 312 and receive as output relatively simple instructions, such as, update display, and so on. As such, the Remote User Interface (RUI) 330 may be provided as a “thin client” or a “lightweight” User Interface while the UI logic is essentially performed by the “Cloud” 312.

It should be noted that the computing device 300 can include additional components. Referring to FIG. 3, an application loader 328 can be operable to load various components of the Web-based application 302 in a similar manner as a conventional application loader operates.

Moreover, it should be noted that the computing device 300 can be operable to dynamically adjust its usage of the external computing resources (or services) provided by the “Cloud” 312 at runtime when one or more of the Web-based application 302 are being executed. As such, the computing device 300 can behave as a dynamically adjustable (or Elastic) device. To further demonstrate the dynamic adaptability (or Elasticity) of the computing device 300, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D depict various configurations of a dynamically adjustable (or Elastic) computing device 300 in accordance with a number of embodiments of the invention.

Referring to FIG. 4A, the computing device 300 (also shown in FIG. 3) may initially execute both Weblets 302 a and 302 b and execute and render the UI 302 u using its own internal computing resources. However, if the internal computing resources are needed for other tasks, or other factors dictate preservation of the internal computing resources, the computing device 300 may use the services or the external computing resources of a “Cloud” 312, as shown in FIG. 4B. The factors that may dictate preservation of the internal computing resources can, for example, include the location of the computing device 300, the battery power, monetary cost associated with obtaining external computing services, network bandwidth available for obtaining external computing services, and so on. Referring now to FIG. 4B, execution of the Weblet 302 a can be supported by the “Cloud” 312 instead of the computing device 300 while Weblet 302 b and UI 302 u are still executed using the internal computing resources of the computing device 300. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciated that the execution of the Weblet 302 a can be effectively moved to the “Cloud” 312 by, for example, requesting its execution from “Cloud” 312 or effectively initiating its execution on “Cloud” 312. As a dynamically elastic device, the computing device 300 may still use more of the computing resources of the “Cloud” 312 during execution or run time. As shown in FIG. 4C, Weblet 302 a and 302 b can both be executed by the “Cloud” 312 while only the UI 302 u is executed using the internal computing resources of the computing device 300. Subsequently, the execution of the UI 302 u can even be effectively moved to the “Cloud” 312, as depicted in FIG. 4D. By way of example, the execution of the UI 302 u can be requested from “Cloud” 312 or effectively initiated on “Cloud” 312 in order to effectively move the execution of UI 302 u to “Cloud” 312.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that Cloud Computing (CC) can, among other things, deliver infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), and software-as-a-service (SaaS). As a result, computing models for service providers and individual consumers that enable new IT business models, such as, for example, “resource-on-demand”, pay-as-you-go, and utility-computing. In the case of consumer electronic (CE) devices, applications are traditionally constrained by limited and/or reduce resources, such as, for example, low CPU frequency, smaller memory, low network bandwidth, and battery powered computing environment. Cloud computing can be used to effectively remove the traditional constraints imposed on CE devices. Various “elastic” devices, including CE devices can be augmented with cloud-based functionality.

FIG. 5 depicts an elastic mobile device (or mobile terminal) 502 operable to effectively consume cloud resources via an elasticity service 504 in a computing/communication environment 500 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. In the computing/communication environment 500, an elastic application can include of one or more weblets that can function independently, but can communicate with each other. When an elastic application is launched, an elastic manager on the mobile device 502 (not shown) can monitor the resource requirements of the weblets of the application, and make decisions as to where the weblets can and/or should be launched. By way of example, computation and/or communication extensive weblets, such as image and video processing, usually strain the processors of mobile devices. As such, an elastic manager can determine to launch computation and/or communication extensive weblets on one or more platforms in the cloud. On the other hand, User Interface (UI) components requiring extensive access to local data of the mobile device 502 may be launched by the elastic manager on the mobile device 502. When a weblet is to be launched on the cloud, the elastic manager can be operable to communicate with the elasticity service 504 residing on the cloud. The elasticity service 504, among other things, can be operable to make decisions regarding the execution of one or more weblet on the cloud. By way of example, the elasticity service 504 can determine on which cloud node a weblet can and/or should be launched, and how much storage can and/or should be allocated for the execution of the weblet on the cloud. The elasticity service can also be operable to return information back to the mobile device 502 after successfully launching the weblet (e.g., return an endpoint URL). In some situations, even with heavy computational tasks, execution on the device may be preferred and/or only possible. For example, when the mobile device 502 is unable to communicate with the elasticity service 504 (e.g., mobile device 502 is offline, media items to be executed are small in size or number, or fast response is not a requirement. In general, the mobile device 502 and the elasticity service 504 can “work together” to decide where and how various tasks can and/or should be executed. The elasticity service 504 can be operable to organize cloud resources and delegate various application requirements of multiple mobile devices including the mobile device 502. As a service provider, the elasticity service 504 may or may not be part of a cloud provider.

Furthermore, the elastic manager can be operable to make decisions regarding migrating weblets during run time (e.g., when weblets are being executed) between the device 502 and the cloud, based in various criteria, for example, including changes in the computing environment of the device 502 or changes in user preferences. It should be noted that the weblets of an application can be operable to communicate with each other during execution to exchange various information to, for example, synchronize the application state and exchange input/output data. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, communication between the weblets of the same application can, for example, be accomplished by a Remote Procedure Call (RPC) mechanism or using “RESTful” web services. The elasticity service 504 can organize cloud resources and delegates application requirements from various mobile devices including the mobile device 502. As a service provider, the elasticity service 504 may or may not be part of a cloud provider.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the mobile device 502 can, for example, represent an example of a computing device 300 depicted in FIG. 4, and the Elastic Service 504 can, for example, represent a Cloud Management Service 312 also depicted in FIG. 4.

It will also be appreciated that the computing/communication environment, among other things, allows development of applications (elastic applications) that can even better leverage cloud computing for mobile devices that have traditionally been resource constrained. The general concepts and benefits of elastic applications are disclosed in provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/222,855, entitled “SECURING ELASTIC APPLICATIONS ON MOBILE DEVICES FOR CLOUD COMPUTING,”, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein for all purposes, and, among other things, provides an elastic framework architecture, and elastic application model, a security model for elastic applications and elastic computing/communication environment.

In view of the foregoing, it will also be appreciated that the techniques described above, among other things, allow splitting an application program into sub-components (e.g., weblets spilt between an elastic device and a Cloud computing resource). This approach dramatically differs from conventional approaches including those that primarily focus on providing resources (e.g., Information Technology (IT) resources provided to them to enterprise IT infrastructures), traditional client/server model where computation can be initially and statically requested from a service provider (e.g., a server), whereby most, if not all, of the computation is done by the service provider. In stark contrast, the invention allows computation to be done based on application components (e.g., individual weblets) and allows each application component to be executed by a different entity and in a different location. As such, the invention allows an application model that need not distinguish between clients and servers, but can distinguish between individual components of a single application. The invention also provides device or client based techniques and solutions that have not been addressed by conventional approaches, which have been primarily focused on providing resources from the perspective of a resource or service provider. Again, it should be noted that the techniques of the inventions are especially and highly suited for mobile devices that have been traditionally constrained by limited computing capabilities due to their limited and/or reduced computing resources. Conventional techniques do not provide a practical and feasible solution allowing mobile devices to effectively split execution of applications between in a dynamic manner, thereby allowing execution of an application to be split during runtime in a manner deemed more appropriate at a given time, and yet split differently later but still during the runtime of the same application.

Execution Allocation Cost Assessment

In view of the foregoing, it will readily be appreciated that in an Elastic Computing Environment (ECE), various executable code components or modules (e.g., a computer application program) can be effectively split between a CE device and one or more computing resource providers (e.g., a cloud providing one or more platforms and/or services). For example, some parts or components of a computer application program (or application) can be executed (or run) on a device while others parts or components can be executed on a Cloud. This would effectively extend the computing capabilities of the device and can overcome its resource constraints. Also, applications life cycle can be extended since the same application can be used on various devices regardless of their resource constraints.

Those skilled in the art will know that primitive operations enabling an Elastic application model, for example, include data and code offloading when the application is loaded, dynamic migration during runtime, creating new components (or component instances) for execution, destroying active components, and changing/adjusting the load balance between active components during runtime.

One general problem or challenge for enabling an effective Elastic application model is identification of benefits and an effective strategy/configuration for execution applications between a computing system and one or more computing resource providers. For example, one specific problem is saving power, especially for battery power of a mobile device. As such, when offloading a computing component from a device to a Cloud, the cost of power usage associated with offloading the computing component and providing data necessary for its execution can be considered to achieve a more effective Elastic application model for mobile devices. In addition, cost of power usage associated with communication between the device and the Cloud to provide input and receive output, etc. can be considered.

This problem can be expressed as finding an optimal set of weblets to run remotely (weblet_r) and a set of weblets to run locally (weblet_l), such that the Right Hand Side (RHS) of a simplified expression (shown below) is minimized or is at least less than the power cost when all weblets run locally. That is:

P(all_weblets)≧P(weblets_l)+P(comm(weblet_l, weblet_r)+P(data offloading), and

Min((weblets_l)+P(comm(weblet_l, weblet_r)+P(data offloading)),

Where:

-   -   P(all_weblets): power cost when all weblets are running in local     -   P(weblets_l): power cost when only weblet_l are running local     -   P(comm(weblet_l, weblet_r): power cost for communication between         weblet_r and weblet_l     -   P(data offloading): power cost for data offloading when doing         the lifecycle of the app

It should be noted that the exemplary problem of power consumption can require a dynamic solution for various reasons including: data offloading can be very dynamic and application specific, even with the same application a different solution may be required depending on the situation as, for example, input and/or output data associated with each instance of execution may vary for the same application. Also, such decisions may be even more complicated if the factors associated with power model or power consumption are not static. It should also be noted that the decision making itself typically consumes power, especially if a very complex/dynamic power model is used.

The same considerations can be made for other numerous execution allocation cost (or “cost”) objectives including, for example, performance (e.g., latency, throughput), monetary cost (e.g., monetary costs associated with computing costs and data traffic on a Cloud charged based on a business model), and security (e.g., whether to execute private applications and/or data on a Cloud).

It will be appreciated that an execution-allocation cost assessment component (or a cost service provider) can be operable to make decisions regarding costs associated with allocation of computer executable components on or between various computing systems (e.g., computing devices, mobile phones) and computing resource providers (e.g., clouds). Generally, a cost service provider can be operable to effectively reduce or minimize cost associated with allocation of executable components based on a cost model. It should be noted that a cost service provider can be operable to make decisions regarding the allocation cost of the executable components during runtime of the executable components. Furthermore, the service provider can effectively make decisions and affect execution allocation in “real” time in a manner that would be more particular and desirable for users.

It will also be appreciated that a cost service provider can be provided that is especially suitable for Elastic computing environments that support Elastic Devices noted above and described in greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/559,394 entitled “EXTENDING THE CAPABILITY OF COMPUTING DEVICES BY USING DYNAMICALLY SCALABLE EXTERNAL RESOURCES,”.

To further elaborate, FIG. 6 depicts an Elastic computing environment 600 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 6, an execution-allocation cost service component 602 is operable to determine the relative cost associated with allocating execution of executable computer code (or executable code) to or between a computing system 604 and one or more computing resource providers 606 (e.g., one or more Clouds). Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the execution-allocation cost service component 602 can be provided as, or as a part of, a computing system (e.g., a computing device, a server) and may operate as a part of, in cooperation with a computing resource provider, or may be provided as, or as part of, an independent computing system that may or may not use the resources of a computing resource provider 606 in order to perform various computing or computing related tasks in order to effectively provide a execution-allocation cost service to the computing systems 604 and/or and one or more computing resource providers 606.

Referring to FIG. 6, a cost modeling agent 610 is operable on an Elastic Device 604A. Cost modeling agent 610 can include a data (or raw data) collection subcomponent (or module) 610 a operable to effectively collect execution allocation data that can be obtained and effectively used by the execution-allocation cost service component (or cost service provider) 602 to make decisions regarding the allocation of an application 612 for execution between the Elastic Device 604A and the computing resource provider 606. As shown in FIG. 6, the cost modeling agent 610 can optionally include additional subcomponent including a pre-processing subcomponent 610 b operable to preprocess data to provide it in a form that may be more efficient for processing by the computing resource provider 606 (e.g., convert raw data to normalized data, as generally known in the art). Other exemplary subcomponent(s) 610 c can provide various functions pertaining to execution allocation data and allocation of execution based on the execution allocation data. For example, a feature extraction 610 c subcomponent can be operable to determine features of patterns of the collected data in order to allow making better decisions regarding execution allocation, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Referring back to FIG. 6, it should be noted that a sensing component 614 can be operable to measure and/or collect data from various sensors (not shown) of the device 604A. The data measured and/or collected by the sensing component 614 can be provided by an elasticity manager 616 as execution allocation data to the allocation cost service component 602.

Generally, the cost modeling agent 610 can be operable to measure and/or collect data associated with the Elastic Device 604A and various application environments (e.g., application environment of the application 612). By way of example, the cost modeling agent 610 can be operable to measure and/or collect: device configuration data (e.g., data pertaining to CPU, memory, networks, bandwidth, power consumption), device sensor information (e.g., battery status, location, signal strength, temperature, speed), application runtime information (e.g., input/output data, communication data, local execution time).

Optionally, the cost modeling agent 610 can be operable to preprocess data (or raw data). By way of example, data collected in diverse forms can be converted to numerical values before feature extraction operations are performed and learning/modeling processes are applied. Also, due to differing scales and ranges of numerical values associated with different sources, normalization can be applied to various ranges of values for feature extraction and learning/modeling processes. If possible, data features, or patterns can be extracted.

The execution-allocation cost service component (or cost service provider) 602 can include a data collection subcomponent (or module) 602 a, a learning and modeling subcomponent 602 b (e.g., a learning and modeling engine), and a decision making subcomponent 602 c, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Data collection subcomponent 602 a can be operable to measure and/or collect data pertaining to computing resource providers 606 (e.g., Cloud sensor data can, for example, include network status, status of shared resources, status of external data). In addition, data collection subcomponent 602 a can be operable to collect data and in particular, execution allocation data, from various cost model agents including the cost model agent 610 of the Elastic Device 604A. Learning and modeling subcomponent 602 b can be operable to effectively learn and model application behavior based on the data collected by the data collection subcomponent 602 a. By way of example, various algorithms can be developed from simple rule-based algorithms including supervised learning algorithms, such as Support Vector Machines, and unsupervised learning algorithms, such as K-means (or Vector Quantization). In addition, the learning and modeling subcomponent 602 b can be operable to run various algorithms based on the data collected and/or measured and one or more cost models. Generally, the decision making subcomponent 602 c can be operable to make decisions regarding the allocation of execution between an Elastic Device 604A and computing resource providers 606. Decision making subcomponent 602 c can also be operable to generate action requests to various Elasticity (or Elastic) Managers of Elastic Devices (e.g., Elasticity Manager 616 on the Elastic Device 604A). In addition, the decision making subcomponent 602 c may be operable to perform various other operations to affect allocation of execution including, for example, offloading components to a computing resource provider 606 (e.g., a Cloud platform 606), create or remove components in or from an Elastic Device 604A and/or computing resource provider 606, perform task dispatch and/or allocation between executable components, upgrade or downgrade quality of service provided by the cost service provider component 602 to a particular Elastic Device including the Elastic Device 604A.

It should be noted that Elasticity Manager 616 can be operable to receive decisions (or allocation decisions) from the decision making subcomponent 602 c directly or via the cost service provider 602, as requests or commands, and effectively enforce them on the Elastic Device 604A.

It should be noted that the decision making subcomponent 602 c can be operable to determine a current extent of execution-allocation, based on execution-allocation data pertaining to multiple other computing devices. As such, the decision making subcomponent 602 c can be operable to predict the current extent of execution-allocation based on aggregate allocation data that it can obtain and maintain. As noted above, for example, a learning model can be utilized to make predictions with respect to execution-allocation for a particular device and/or particular application, based on data (or historical data) that can be collected and maintained for the device, a particular application, multiple and typically numerous other devices and/or applications, that are likely to behave in a similar manner as the particular device or application

FIG. 7A depicts an Elastic computing environment 700 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 7A, a computing system 700 can effectively provide an execution-allocation cost model server (or a cost model service) 700 a for various other computing systems 702, including a mobile device 702A, a Personal Computer (PC) (e.g. desktop or laptop PC) 702B, and a computing system 702C. Generally, the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a is operable to determine the relative extent of allocation of execution executable computer code (or executable code) 706 between a computing system 702 and various computing resource providers 704 (e.g., Clouds 704 a and 704 b).

By way of example, execution-allocation cost model server (or cost model service) 700 a can be operable to: determine the extent of execution allocation of the computer executable computer code 706A and/or 706B between the mobile device 702A and the computing resource providers 704, determine the extent of allocation of the computer executable computer code 706A and/or 706B for execution to, or between, the mobile device 702A and the computing resource providers 704. As such, the execution-allocation cost model server may, for example, determine to allocate and/or cause allocation of execution such that a first portion of the executable code 706A (706 a 1) is executed using the internal computing resources of the mobile device 702A, a second portion of the executable code 706A (706 a 2) is to be executed using the computing resources of the computing resource provider 704A, a second portion of the executable code 706A (706 a 2) is to be executed using the computing resources of the computing resource provider 704B, and so on. It should be noted that execution-allocation cost model server 700 a is generally operable to determine the extent of allocation of execution at run time of the executable code 706 (e.g., when the executable code 706 is to be loaded for execution or is being executed). By way of example, execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can determine the extent of allocation of execution when one or more portions of the executable code 706 are being executed by the mobile device 706A and/or computing resource provider 704A.

Generally, the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can be operable to determine, during the runtime of the executable codes 706, a current extent of execution-allocation to, or between, a computing system 706 and various computing resource providers 704. As a result, at a given time during the runtime of a particular executable code (e.g., 706A), the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can determine a current relative extent of allocation, and allocate and/or cause allocation of a specific portion the executable code (e.g., executable code portion 706A) to, or between, a specific computing device (e.g., mobile device 702A) and one or more computing resource providers 704 in accordance with the current extent of execution allocation. It will also be appreciated that the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can be operable to effectively change, monitor, and/or update the current extent of execution allocation dynamically during the runtime of the executable code 706A such that a specific portion the executable code (e.g., executable code portion 706 a 1) is, for example, effectively relocated or migrated from a specific computing device (e.g., mobile device 702A) to a particular computing resource provider or vice versa, or relocated or migrated from one computing resource provider 704 to another computing resource 704.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can be operable to determine a current extent of allocation (or a current extent of execution-allocation) based on data 710 pertaining to allocation of execution of executable computer code (or execution-allocation data) 706 to, or between, at least one computing system 702 and one or more computing resource provides 704. Generally, the execution-allocation data 710 can be based on one or more criteria associated with a computing system 702 and/or computing resource 704. The execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can obtain execution-allocation data 710 as input, determine, based on the execution-allocation data 710, a current extent of execution-allocation, and provide the current extent of execution-allocation as output data that allocates and/or causes allocation of execution accordingly (e.g., output data as an indication or a command/request to a computing system or a computing resource provider).

It should also be noted that the execution-allocation cost model server 700 a can also be operable to obtain aggregate cost data 700 c pertaining to general or specific execution costs associated with execution of various executable code 706 and various computing systems 702. By way of example, general execution cost of a particular executable code (e.g., 706 a) or one of its components on any computing system 706, or specific execution cost of a particular portion of a executable code (e.g., 706 a 1) on a particular computing system (e.g., 702 a) or computing resource provider (e.g., 704 a) can be obtained and stored as aggregate cost data 700 c. As another example, execution cost of any executable code executed by a particular computing system (e.g., 702 a) can be logged as historical data.

Historical data can be used to make prediction (or estimation) regarding execution of particular portion of executable code (e.g., 706 a 1). For example, historical data pertaining to execution costs of computing systems 702A and 702B can be used to make a prediction regarding the cost of execution by the computing 702C. Similarity of devices, cloud resource providers, user preferences, networks and network connections are among a few examples that can be used to make a prediction re cost of execution.

Generally, aggregate cost data 700 c can be effectively used by a cost allocation predictor 700 d to predict (or estimate) the cost of allocating execution of a particular portion executable code (e.g., 706 a 1) on a particular computing system (e.g., 702 a) or computing resource provider (e.g., 704 a), as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. It should also be noted that the cost model server 700 a can be operable to effectively use a prediction based on the aggregate cost data 700 c instead of using a cost model to make a decision regarding the allocation of execution.

FIG. 7B depicts a method 750 for determining relative extent of allocation of execution of executable computer code to or between a first computing device and one or more computing resource providers in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 7B, initially, execution-allocation data pertaining to allocation of execution of executable computer code between at least a first computing device and one or more computing resource providers is obtained (752). Next, it is determined (754), during runtime of the executable computer code, at least partially based on the execution-allocation data, relative extent of allocation of execution of the executable computer code to or between at a least the first computing device and one or more computing resource providers. The relative extent of allocation of execution can be determined, during runtime, as a current extent of execution-allocation. It should be noted that execution-allocation data may also be obtained (752) during runtime as current execution-allocation data. Thereafter, it is determined (756) whether to affect the allocation of execution based on the current extent of execution-allocation as determined (754) based on execution-allocation data. Accordingly, the allocation of execution of the executable computer code can be affected (756). More particularly, the execution can be allocated or caused to be allocated to one or between at least the first computing device and one or more computing resource providers in accordance with the current extent of execution-allocation. Those skilled in the art will readily know that the determination (756) of whether to affect the allocation of execution can represent a design or programming option, and/or can, for example, be determined based on user input, preference and/or profile, the executable computer code, etc. Generally, the current execution-allocation data can be generated as output and may be provided, for example, as an indication, request, or command to the first computing device and/or computing resource providers to affect the allocation of execution of the executable computer code.

FIG. 8 depicts a cost model service 802 on a Cloud 804 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 8, cost model service 802 is provided on Cloud 804 and can be operable to distinguish different sensor data (or sensor information). By way of example, the cost model service 802 can be operable to distinguish sensor data obtained from the Cloud 804 (and possibly network infrastructure data) and from sensor data obtained from individual Elastic Devices 806. Those skilled in the art will appreciated that the ability to make such distinctions can further enhance the accuracy and performance of cost models used by the cost model service 802, especially for situations where numerous Elastic Devices 806 and/or Clouds are supported, as may be the case in real commercial deployments.

Cost model service 802 can also be operable to distinguish different user preferences and build customized cost models respectively for individual users and/or Elastic Devices 806. In other words, the cost model service 802 can provide a personalized or customized cost service. In addition, cost model service 802 can be operable to develop or build a cost model that is suitable for a set of users and/or devices with similar traits (e.g., similar user cost preferences, similar device capabilities and/or configurations).

To further elaborate, the following provides an exemplary power cost model that can be used in connection with the present invention. One objective of the power cost model is to onload/offload different components from/to a cloud platform during load-time and/or run-time of an application, such that its power consumption on the Elastic Device (ED) is minimal. Note that this exemplary model does not consider execution power consumptions on the cloud platforms.

On each state of the target application, its power Graph is a directed graph G=(V, E), where

-   -   V is the set of active components     -   E is data dependency     -   (v1,v2)εE means v2 has input from v1     -   v0 is for any other web services/external data resources

An active components is specifies as tuple v=(s, location, ep), where

-   -   s is state: active/inactive     -   location: device/cloud     -   ep: execution power cost, and,

${{ep}(v)} = \left\{ \begin{matrix} 0 & {{if}\mspace{14mu}\left( {{v.{location}} = {cloud}} \right)} \\ {localexecutionsubodel} & {{if}\mspace{14mu}\left( {{v.{location}} = {device}} \right)} \end{matrix} \right.$

A data dependency is a directed and valued edge in G, and

-   -   e(v1,v2): size of data     -   tp(v1,v2): transportation power cost, and

${{tp}\left( {{v\; 1},{v\; 2}} \right)} = \left\{ \begin{matrix} 0 & {{{if}\mspace{11mu}\left( {{v\; 1.{location}} = {v\; 2.{location}}} \right)}\;} \\ {{cpr} \times {e\left( {{v\; 1},{v\; 2}} \right)}} & {{{if}\mspace{11mu}\left( {{v\; 1.{location}} \neq {v\; 2.{location}}} \right)},} \end{matrix} \right.$ where cpr

-   -   is cost of power consumption rate between ED and cloud, which         depends on, e.g., signal strengthen, network interfaces, network         traffic status, etc.

A graph transformation is a set of actions to change G(V, E) to G′(V′, E′), where:

-   -   create/delete a component: v.state′=active/inactive     -   onload/offload a component: v.location′=device/cloud     -   update e(v1,v2) with a new value based on v.location′     -   update ep(v) if v.location is changed     -   update tp(v1,v2) if either v1.location or v2.location is         changed.

Basic rules:

-   -   if ∃vεV, e(v0,v)|G>0, v.location=device         v.location′=cloud, then e(v0,v)|G′=0     -   Also update tp(v1,v2) if v1 changes for any v2     -   if v.location=cloud         v.location′=device, then ep(v) is local execution power cost     -   and possibly e(v0,v)>0

FIG. 9 depicts an exemplary power graph transformation that can be used in connection with the invention. Referring to FIG. 9, the power cost objective function is to find out a graph transformation result G=(V,E), such that:

${Min}\left( {{\sum\limits_{i = 0}^{V}\;{{ep}\left( v_{i} \right)}} + {\sum\limits_{i,{j = 0}}^{V}\;{{tp}\left( {v_{i},v_{j}} \right)}}} \right)$

Once this power model is deployed on the cloud-side cost service, it decides that it needs to monitor/measure the following parameters:

-   -   execution power cost for each component of the application on         ED, which can be static, e.g., via static analysis of its         instructions types and their power consumption cost per         instruction, or it can be dynamically monitor by some sensors         deployed on ED.     -   Transportation power cost per MB data transportation, which is,         in turn, determined by monitoring signal strengthen, network         status, possible network interfaces on ED.     -   Size of data communication between components both on cloud and         ED.

The cost service then decides which parameters are monitored/measured by cloud-side and ED-side, for example, data communication and network status can be measured on cloud-side, while execution power cost of ED should be on the ED-side.

When the cost service obtains necessary data, it can build a power graph for this application, and make possible decisions on the graph transformation to make the total power cost minimum, and then instruct the EM on the ED to enforce possible actions.

Possible way to trigger decision making by cost service:

-   -   Any parameter changes on ED and cloud side     -   Significant change of some parameters, which can be found via         complex machine learning approach such as Bayesian Network by         collecting data from many similar devices and applications.     -   Prediction based on statistical study and/or machine learning

The various aspects, features, embodiments or implementations of the invention described above can be used alone or in various combinations. The many features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the invention should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the invention. 

1. A method comprising: obtaining execution-allocation data pertaining to allocation of execution of executable computer code to a plurality of computing devices including first and second computing devices, wherein the executable computer code includes a plurality of executable code portions that can be individually allocated dynamically at runtime for execution to one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers; determining, based on the execution-allocation data and during runtime of the executable computer code, whether to allocate each one of the plurality of executable code portions, for execution, to the first computing device or the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers, as a first current extent of execution-allocation; and determining, based on the execution-allocation data and during runtime of the executable computer code, whether to allocate each one of the plurality of executable code portions, for execution, to the second computing device or the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers, as a second current extent of execution-allocation; wherein the first and second computing devices are mobile devices, and the one or more computing resource providers include one or more clouds operable to provide scalable computing resources as a service to the first and second computing devices dynamically.
 2. A method as recited in claim 1, further comprising to allocate and/or effectively cause allocation of execution of the plurality of executable computer code portions to, one of or between, the at a least first computing device and one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers in accordance with the first current extent of execution-allocation.
 3. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the execution-allocation data includes input cost data for an execution-allocation cost assessment model for determining the first and second current extents of execution-allocation; and wherein the determining determines, based on the input cost data, relative cost of execution of the executable computer code between the first computing device and one or more dynamically scalable resource providers.
 4. A method as recited in claim 2, the method further comprising to provide the first and second current extents of execution-allocation as a service to the first and second computing device.
 5. A method as recited in claim 1, further comprising to allocate and/or effectively cause allocation of execution of the plurality of executable computer code portions to, one of or between, the second computing device and one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers in accordance with the first current extent of execution-allocation.
 6. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the first computing device is or includes a mobile device and the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers representing one or more abstract computing resource providers operable to effectively provide the mobile device with computing resources that exceeds that computing capabilities of the mobile device.
 7. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers representing, part of one or more clouds.
 8. A method as recited in claim 1, further comprising: determine the first current extent of execution-allocation at least partially based on execution allocation data pertaining to one or more other computing devices.
 9. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the determining of the first current extent of execution-allocation further comprises: predicting the first current extent of execution-allocation based on at least allocation data pertaining to the one or more other computing devices without using a cost assessment model for the first computing device.
 10. A method as recited in claim 8, further comprising to: obtain aggregate allocation data from the first one or more other computing devices; maintain the aggregate allocation data; and determine the current extent of execution-allocation at least partially based on the aggregate allocation data.
 11. A method as recited in claim 1, further comprising on the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers and/or uses computing resources of the one or more computing resource providers to determine the current extent of execution-allocation.
 12. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the computer executable code includes a plurality of executable portions of an executable computer application program, and wherein the determining of the current extent of execution-allocation comprises: determining whether to allocate each of a plurality of the executable portions of the computer application program for execution by the first computing device or by the one or more computing resource providers.
 13. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the allocation data includes one or more of the following: device configuration data, data pertaining to one or more processors, data pertaining to memory, data pertaining to one or more networks and/or network bandwidths, data pertaining to power consumption, device sensor data collected or measured by one or more sensors, battery status, location, signal strength, temperature, speed, application runtime information, input/output data, communication data, local execution time, and remote execution time.
 14. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing at least executable computer program code for determining relative extent of allocation of execution of first executable computer code to or between a first computing device and one or more computing resource providers, wherein said computer readable storage medium includes: executable computer program code for obtaining execution-allocation data pertaining to allocation of execution of executable computer code to a plurality of computing devices including first and second computing devices, wherein the executable computer code includes a plurality of executable code portions that can be individually allocated dynamically at runtime for execution to one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers; executable computer program code for determining, based on the execution-allocation data and during runtime of the executable computer code, whether to allocate each one of the plurality of executable code portions, for execution, to the first computing device or the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers, as a first current extent of execution-allocation, wherein the first current extent of execution-allocation is at least partially based on execution allocation data pertaining to one or more other computing devices; and executable computer program code for determining, based on the execution-allocation data and during runtime of the executable computer code, whether to allocate each one of the plurality of executable code portions, for execution, to the second computing device or the one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers, as a second current extent of execution-allocation; wherein the first and second computing devices are mobile devices, and the one or more computing resource providers include one or more clouds operable to provide scalable computing resources as a service to the first and second computing devices dynamically.
 15. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 14, further includes: executable computer program code for allocating and/or effectively causing allocation of execution of the plurality of executable computer code portions to, one of or between, the at a least first computing device and one or more dynamically scalable computing resource providers in accordance with the first current extent of execution-allocation. 